Some women will use aromatherapy oils to assist them deal with their labour pain. The aim of using specific essential oils is to help calm and / or relieve muscular spasms. Aromatherapists may recommend various oils as warm compresses, burning the oils and / or added to carrier oil for massage. For more detailed information you may wish to read
about natural therapies- aromatherapy.
The oils listed below are meant as a guide only. Consultation with an experienced Aromatherapist is recommended. If essential oils are used as part of a massage oil, the woman's back should be massaged with downward strokes and in rhythm with her 'out breath'. If her breathing is fast, then massaging on every second out breath can encourage her to slow her breathing down.
NOTE: Some of these oils (such as Clary sage) should only be used in labour, as they can stimulate contractions during pregnancy.
Some oils that aromatherapists may recommend in isolation, or in combination, can include:
Lavender for:
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Stimulating circulation. |
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Calming. |
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Possibly a slight analgesic effect. |
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Headaches, feelings of light-headedness and 'centring' after shock. |
Chamomile for:
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Calming. |
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Assisting with anxiety. |
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Analgesia. |
Nutmeg for:
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Calming. |
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Assisting with anxiety. |
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Increasing blood supply by stimulating circulation. |
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Analgesia. |
Jasmine for:
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Relieving muscle spasms. |
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Calming, relaxing, optimism and confidence. |
Clary Sage for:
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Mild analgesia. |
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Uterine tone and contraction stimulant. |
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Helping breathing, calming. |
Black pepper for:
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Helping with muscular aches, pains, tired and aching limbs and stiffness. |
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Stimulating circulation. |
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Assisting with stamina where there is frustration. |